Overview: Norway dominates Israel in Oslo
Erling Haaland delivered a record-breaking performance as Norway swept aside Israel 5-0 at Ullevaal Stadium. The Manchester City striker bagged a hat-trick and became the fastest male player to reach 50 international goals, achieving the milestone in 46 appearances. The win, Norway’s largest in recent memory, reinforces their grip on Group I with qualification for the World Cup finals increasingly in sight.
Haaland’s record-breaking night
Haaland’s scoring advent began when a disputed penalty was saved by Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, only for the referee to order a retake due to encroachment. The second attempt was also denied by Peretz, before the breakthrough came in the 18th minute from a Norwegian own goal by Anan Khalaili, followed by Haaland sprinting through to slot home.
Norway’s lead grew further as Haaland converted his second goal with a powerful header, then completed his sixth international hat-trick for his country with a late nod to seal the victory. In total, Haaland’s treble took his international tally to 51 in 46 appearances, a record pace that will be remembered as a landmark moment in Norway’s football history.
Group I implications: Norway press ahead
The result leaves Norway on 18 points, six clear of second-placed Italy, who beat Estonia 3-1 in Tallinn to stay on track for a spot in the World Cup play-offs. The impressive performance in Oslo highlights Norway’s potential as a side capable of competing on the world stage, something they have not achieved since Euro 2000. With a commanding display against a direct rival, the Scandinavians have laid down a marker as they chase a place at next year’s finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Israel’s position and next steps
Israel, who used the occasion to field supporters under banners including “Let the Ball Talk!”, faced a difficult night as they conceded early and never recovered. The result complicates their hopes of advancing in Group I, where they trail in a fight for a playoff spot. The team now shift focus to their upcoming assignment against a strong Italy side, a must-win match if they are to keep their qualification dreams alive.
Local atmosphere and security
Before kickoff, a pro-Palestinian protest nearby attracted hundreds of demonstrators, while Norwegian police dispersed some gatherings with tear gas and arrested several individuals. Inside Ullevaal Stadium, a smaller group of Israeli fans waved their flag and a banner referencing the ongoing debate around the conflict, underscoring how football matches often become stages for broader political conversations.
Looking ahead
Norway’s advancing form bodes well for their World Cup hopes, as does the continued strength of Haaland, who has become a central figure for both club and country. With Italy closing the gap in the group thanks to their own results, the race for a playoff place remains competitive, but the path to Qatar-inspired finals appears clearer for the Norwegians after this standout performance.
